Man Utd's Tom Cleverley: Ryan Giggs can pass on winning knowledge

ROLE MODEL: Tom Cleverley thinks having Ryan Giggs at the club can help boost the squad [GETTY]

New boss Van Gaal brought five staff members with him when he was appointed in May, but he felt it was important to keep a link with the club's past, so Giggs was immediately sounded out about becoming the Dutchman's assistant.

Having been at the club for 24 years, Cleverley thinks the presence of the 13-time Premier League winner around the training ground can have a good effect on the squad this season as they look to challenge for the title following a dismal year under David Moyes.

"We have known (Giggs) for a long time and he is brilliant for the players," the Manchester United midfielder said.

"As a young player growing up at the club he has been the best role model there is.

"You look at his career and all the titles he has won and hopefully he can pass his knowledge onto the players.

"It is good to have him around."

United's Premier League opener at home to Swansea is just 19 days away on August 16.